Challenging times for Ulster and Connacht
Irish rugby doesn't have a deep and meaningful relationship with the Challenge Cup but with two provinces in the mix it may be a route to salvaging something from the season.
Challenge Cup Sport News
Irish provinces in Europe: All you need to know
The European action gets back under way this weekend with all four Irish provinces in action.
Connacht and Ulster name experienced Challenge Cup sides
Bundee Aki and Finlay Bealham are among seven changes for Connacht ahead of Sunday's Challenge Cup last-16 meeting with Pau in France (5.30pm Irish time).
European Champions and Challenge Cups: Round of 16 teams, fixtures, results
CHAMPIONS CUP ROUND OF 16
Sloppy Lions fall to URC rivals Ospreys, still qualify for Challenge Cup knockouts
The Lions delivered a sloppy performance in their European Challenge Cup clash against Ospreys at Ellis Park on Sunday, falling to a disappointing 38-28 defeat.
Grant Gilchrist to miss Scotland's Six Nations opener after getting one-week ban
Grant Gilchrist will miss Scotland's Guinness Six Nations opener against Wales after being handed a one-week suspension.
Challenge Cup: Oyonnax pip 14-man Cheetahs with last-grasp try
A late-grasp try saw Oyonnax secure a thrilling victory over the Cheetahs at their Challenge Cup encounter at Stade Charles-Mathon on Saturday.
Battle-scarred but Connacht's Ireland duo good to go
Connacht boss Pete Wilkins is confident Ireland duo Bundee Aki and Finlay Bealham will be "fighting fit" for the Six Nations after coming through a bruising Champions Cup encounter with Bristol on Friday night.